Monstera deliciosa is referred to by several names, including Mexican breadfruit, split-leaf philodendron, and Swiss cheese plant. It’s a massive houseplant with iconic leaves in the field of interior design. The distinctive slits and pores in its foliage have earned it the moniker “Swiss cheese,” and the “breadfruit” name originates from the maize form of its fruit.
Monstera has been used in decorative art and interiors for quite some time. The plant’s leaf is so popular that it has been depicted on everything from cushions to framed art to a single stem of leaves suspended in a glass vase.
Advice on Caring for Monstera Deliciosa
Monsteras are low-maintenance plants that need to be given the correct amount of light, water, and warmth. See how to maintain your plant healthy by following the below-listed care instructions.
Light: Monstera leaves can only grow when exposed to an adequate amount of sunshine. Locate it where it will get indirect sunlight through a glass or other transparent material. The leaves of a monstera can become yellow or brown if they are exposed to too much sunshine. Keep an eye on your plant and see if the leaves are reaching for the light to see whether you need to rotate it.
The Hydration Requirements of Monstera
You need to water it when the top two inches of the soil are dry. Put your finger on the ground to see how dry it is. Overly wet soil can cause root rot in monsteras, so it’s best to plant them in peaty, well-drained soil. Over time, these plants might develop aerial roots. These roots can either be covered with damp sphagnum moss or guided into the soil, where they will receive abundant water.
An Overview of Monstera Temperatures
The monstera plant does well in moderate temperatures of 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant’s native environment is a tropical rainforest, so it will thrive in a similarly warm and moist setting. If you live in a dry location and want to keep your Monstera deliciosa happy, misting it every week is a good idea.
Dangers of Monstera
Easily available in most plant nurseries, the larger species are not recommended for households with pets due to their toxicity; this includes the leaves, stems, flowers, and roots, but not the ripe fruit. Choose a dwarf variety, such as M. Deliciosa Borsigiana, and store it up high to keep your nosy furry pet from sampling. Calcium oxalates present in the plant’s sap can be irritating to the skin and induce stomach discomfort if consumed. As long as you don’t put any portion of the plant in your mouth, it’s fine to have it around the house.
Under the leaves of Monstera plants, you may find spider mites, mealybugs, scales, or aphids. Give the leaves a quick wipe-down every week to eliminate dust and maintain cleanliness. This regular care preserves their glossy dark green leaves in good health. If you discover any pests in your plant, they can be easily removed using a mild washing solution or a moderate insecticide.
Not getting enough sunshine can cause a number of issues, including stunted leaf growth. Leaves on the monstera may not spread as they should if you don’t give it enough light.
Overwatering or malnutrition can cause the Monstera deliciosa’s leaves to become yellow. If this occurs, wait until the soil feels dry before giving the plant any more water. You might try repotting your monstera into new soil if the issue continues. Last but not least, if none of the preceding measures has worked, try giving your plant some organic plant food or fertiliser to restore its leaves to their former glory. Keeping a note of the leaves if they are “sweating” is another indicator of overwatering, which is a telltale symptom.
In conclusion, this guide will ensure that your Monstera grows effortlessly without danger to your and your pet’s health. The plant does not demand a complex care routine and can grow smoothly if the given suggestions are employed.
